We study state-of-the-art knowledge on alliances and M&As in terms of both academic contributions and more practitioner's oriented knowledge. M&As and alliances are discussed from various theoretical perspectives. Students learn to combine these concepts and confront them with empirical findings.

This course discusses firm alliances and mergers and acquisitions (M&As) from a strategy and innovation perspective. It aims at providing a better understanding of the purpose of alliances and M&As and the process of setting up these specific forms of organization. In what way can alliances and M&As help to source new knowledge and create competitive advantage? What are the advantages but also challenges that come with this type of organizational structure? A special focus is put on how to form, manage, and reap benefits of broader alliance networks. The course aims in particular at studying M&As and alliances from various theoretical perspectives but also from a more practitioners-oriented lens. Students learn to combine these different approaches and confront them with empirical findings.

Academic material

Courses and workload are very demanding for all IB Master courses. Exchange students need to have obtained a bachelor degree with a major in Business. Exchange students need to major in strategy in their Master.
An advanced level of English